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The Evolution of the Linear No-Threshold Model in Radiation Protection: Insights from a Bibliometric Perspective
Andy Wai Kan Yeung1, Andrew Nalley, Kuo Feng Hung
1Oral and Maxillofacial Radiology, Applied Oral Sciences and Community Dental Care, Faculty of Dentistry, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China.
Bibliometric analysis reveals the historical debate on the linear no-threshold (LNT) model in radiation protection. The study highlights a persistent divide between pro-LNT and anti-LNT perspectives, influenced by citation context and funding.
Area of Science:
- Radiation Protection Science
- Bibliometrics and Scientometrics
- History of Science
Background:
- The linear no-threshold (LNT) model is a cornerstone of radiation protection, but its validity has been historically debated.
- Understanding the evolution of scientific discourse and key contributions is crucial for assessing the LNT model's impact.
Purpose of the Study:
- To historically analyze the development and scholarly debate surrounding the linear no-threshold (LNT) model in radiation protection.
- To identify seminal works, influential authors, and research trends using bibliometric techniques.
Main Methods:
- A bibliometric analysis of 750 publications on the LNT model from the Web of Science Core Collection.
- Cited reference analysis and Reference Publication Year Spectroscopy (RPYS) to map citation patterns and identify key publications.
- Assessment of conventional bibliometric indicators including authors, affiliations, journals, and funding agencies.
Main Results:
- The United States dominated publications, with Edward J. Calabrese as the most prolific author.
- RPYS identified seven significant citation peaks, with seminal works including the BEAR I Report and critiques by Calabrese.
- Six of the ten most cited LNT publications were critical of the model, indicating a significant anti-LNT scholarly presence.
Conclusions:
- Bibliometric analysis, particularly RPYS, effectively mapped the evolution of LNT scholarship and highlighted a persistent divide between pro- and anti-LNT perspectives.
- Citation context and funding sources play a significant role in shaping the scientific narrative surrounding the LNT model.
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